Study in the U.S. with an F-1 Student Visa

Your guide to pursuing education in the United States. The F-1 visa is the most common type of student visa for international students looking to study full-time at an accredited U.S. college, university, high school, or language school. At Let’s Get Visa, we simplify complex visa topics — including the F-1 student visa process — with easy-to-understand guidance.

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What is the F-1 Visa?

The F-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to enter the U.S. for full-time academic study.

Validity Period

Valid for your full academic program and includes Optional Practical Training (OPT).

Enrollment Requirement

Requires enrollment in a SEVP-approved school.

Work Authorization

Permits on-campus jobs and off-campus work through OPT or CPT.

Compliance Obligation

Must keep a full-time course load and follow visa regulations.

F-1 Visa Application Process

Here’s how the typical F-1 visa process works:

1
Get Accepted

Apply to and receive admission from a SEVP-certified U.S. school.

2
Receive Form I-20

Your school issues Form I-20, which is required for the visa application.

3
Pay SEVIS fee & submit DS-160

Pay the I-901 SEVIS fee online and complete the DS-160 visa application form.

4
Schedule and attend interview

Book a visa interview at a U.S. embassy/consulate and present required documents.

5
Visa approval & travel

Once approved, travel to the U.S. up to 30 days before your program begins.

F-1 Visa Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the F-1 visa, you must:

Be accepted by a SEVP-certified U.S. school

Intend to enroll as a full-time student

Show proof of sufficient financial support

Demonstrate nonimmigrant intent

Maintain valid documents and visa status in the U.S.

Stay Updated on F-1 Student Visa Guidance

Be the first to know when our easy-to-follow F-1 visa resources and services become available.

Why Understanding the F-1 Visa Matters

Application timing

Schools and embassies follow strict deadlines, so applying early is essential.

Interview preparation

Strong preparation and complete documentation improve your approval chances.

Visa compliance

Following visa rules during your stay impacts future opportunities like H-1B or green cards.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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